In the Sixth Edition of Media Analysis Techniques, author Arthur Asa Berger once again provides students with a clearly written, user-friendly, hands-on guide to media criticism. The book empowers readers to make their own analyses of the media rather than just accept how others interpret the media. Media Analysis Techniques begins by examining four techniques of media interpretation - semiotic theory, Marxist theory, psychoanalytic theory, and sociological theory - that Berger considers critical for creative people to acknowledge if they are to understand how their creations translate to the real world. Application chapters then link popular culture to these four theories. Written in an accessible style that demystifies complex concepts, Media Analysis Techniques includes a glossary, study guides, and the author′s own illustrations.
A great introduction to several key concepts that weren't taught to us in Mass Communication class. I am able to now examine a single piece of work through some important perspectives, seeing it for all that it is and isn't. The latter gives a more valuable insight than the former, I learnt. Wish I could have been in a classroom environment again with these concepts covered in depth. It would have certainly been a fruitful experience that would have furthered my understanding of media and the world. But oh well. Thank you to my supportive bestest of friends for giving me this read <3
Decent introductory overview of key concepts. Written in a very approachable style. Fun little illustrations to break it up as you go.
Best resource I think is the extensive annotated bibliographies should any of the main themes really strike a chord and you are driven to learn more ( or need to learn more as the case would be).
The author includes some fun exercises at the end to demonstrate some of the analytic techniques he discusses.
I read this as a part of a "Race and the Media" class back in 2013. It can be a little verbose, and boring, but does a good job at explaining the key concepts.It completely changed the way I looked at the media and intent versus portrayal. I am reading it again for my thesis. The illustrations are pretty quirky.